United Airlines-Goose Island deal puts 312 Urban Wheat Ale in the sky

The Chicago-based carrier (which took over Houston’s Continental Airlines but maintains a major hub presence at Bush Intercontinental Airport) announced Friday that it is adding Goose Island 312 Urban Wheat Ale to the available selection on worldwide flights and in United clubs in the U.S.

As of July 1, economy passengers will be able to purchase cans of the beer for $7.99. They’re free in first class.

In a news release today, United refers to 312 as “a Chicago-inspired beer” named for the city’s main area code.

That’s accurate. Goose Island Beer Co. started in Chicago and maintains its flagship brewery there, though it now is owned by Anheuser-Busch InBev and much of the 312 lineup is physically brewed at two other A-B plants, including one, according to the labels of locally sold GI beers I’ve seen, in Baldwinsville, N.Y.

And if you are flying into Houston next Tuesday from Chicago, check your ticket because the airline also announced the following:

To commemorate the new partnership, United will host a special happy hour July 1 on United Flight 312 from Chicago to Houston and serve a complimentary 312 Urban Wheat Ale to customers throughout the aircraft.

Read United’s full release below:

CHICAGO, June 27, 2014 – United Airlines and Goose Island Beer Company today announced the two Chicago brands are teaming up to offer Goose Island’s 312 Urban Wheat Ale craft beer on the airline’s flights worldwide and at United Clubs in the continental United States, beginning July 1.

Goose Island’s 312 Urban Wheat Ale is a Chicago-inspired beer. Densely populated with flavor and named after one of Chicago’s primary area codes, the beer has a spicy aroma of cascade hops, followed by a crisp, fruity ale flavor delivered in a smooth, creamy body that is immensely refreshing.

To commemorate the new partnership, United will host a special happy hour July 1 on United Flight 312 from Chicago to Houston and serve a complimentary 312 Urban Wheat Ale to customers throughout the aircraft.

In addition, members of the carrier’s MileagePlus loyalty program may use their miles to purchase tickets to watch the Aug. 19 Chicago Cubs-San Francisco Giants game at Chicago’s Skybox on Sheffield, which offers an extensive Goose Island selection. United will offer 40 pairs of tickets from July 17 to Aug. 6 through its MileagePlus Headliners program.

“We are thrilled to join with another strong Chicago brand as we further enhance our beverage service,” said Lynda Coffman, United’s vice president of food services. “Our customers have told us they want craft beer on board, and with the addition of 312 Urban Wheat Ale, we are able to satisfy their tastes with an excellent product.”

“We are proud to have United Airlines choose Goose Island as a craft beer partner,” said Andy Goeler, CEO of Goose Island Beer Company. “Both companies are not only from Chicago but are also established icons in the Windy City, just two of the many reasons this relationship is sure to be a success.”

The beer will be complimentary for premium-cabin customers and will cost $7.99 in United Economy. In United Clubs, a serving will cost $3.